Accelerating European electronic health record exchange format (EEHRxF) implementation across Europe: a policy...

Area of Science:

• Health Informatics
• Digital Health Policy
• Healthcare Interoperability

Background:

• The European Health Data Space Regulation (EHDS), effective March 5, 2025, mandates harmonized interoperability for Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems across the EU.
• Compliance requires adoption of the European EHR Exchange Format (EEHRxF) for data exchange and logging.
• The EHDS is in force, with implementation deadlines approaching, necessitating clear guidance on scope and obligations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine strategies for accelerating the adoption of the European EHR Exchange Format (EEHRxF).
• To identify policy options and support mechanisms for effective EEHRxF implementation.
• To address the need for clarity regarding EHDS scope, obligations, and implementation.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of policy options for EEHRxF adoption.
• Examination of hybrid implementation models.
• Review of national and EU-level support strategies.

Main Results:

• Hybrid implementation models can accelerate EEHRxF adoption.
• Coordinated national and EU-level support is crucial.
• The European EHRxF Standards and Policy Hub can facilitate implementation.

Conclusions:

• Effective EEHRxF implementation requires utilizing the European EHRxF Standards and Policy Hub.
• Aligning national/regional strategies and supporting SMEs are key recommendations.
• Promoting digital health literacy is essential for successful adoption and compliance with the EHDS.